9-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia traveling south to Gabrovo, Plovdiv, Bansko, and Petrich

Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip in Bulgaria. With 2 nights left in Sofia, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Sofia is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences! Start at National Palace Of Culture, a notable convention center that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find South Park, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Sofia Zoo. This zoo is one of the city’s most captivating spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Sofia at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Geo Milev Park. After exploring the park, head to the locally appreciated Druzhba Park. This park will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Sofia and your accommodation.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Sofia. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hotel Forum? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Turquoise Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sofia.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Cocktail Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Urban Rebel likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Bulgaria.

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Sofia for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views. Start at the captivating North Park, an instagrammable park in Sofia. Next, go to Zaimov Park.

After visiting North Park and Zaimov Park, take time to explore Sofia's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This picture-perfect church offers a unique experience. Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to National Theater "ivan Vazov", one of the most romantic places to visit in Sofia.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

Bring home unique finds from Sofia's bustling shopping hub, Vitosha Boulevard. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Vitosha Boulevard offers plenty of options, including restaurants, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Sofia. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Sofiyska Banitsa, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hotel ZOO Sofia offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bar & Dinner Relax is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sofia.

Keep the evening going at One More Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Teos Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bsd 2 Ndk, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Bulgaria.

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Sofia. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Gabrovo, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Start by visiting Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya, a prime spot to begin your journey. This standout church is sure to impress. Next on your list is Prince's Garden, another must-visit landmark and beloved park renowned for its scenic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Sofia by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Eagles' Bridge. This symbolic monument is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Borisova Gradina Park also adds charm to your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Gabrovo, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Gabrovo's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Savor the flavors at Soprano Restaurant & Live Music Club, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Strannopriemnitsa beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Vanilla coffee&food. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Gabrovo tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Moda Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Zahir - Bar & Dinner offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Cafe Music Bar And Dinner "fashion". This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Gabrovo, Boicheta, Bachkovo, and Asenovgrad. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Gabrovo, including a park, a museum, a monastery, a castle and much more! Start your day with a visit to Park „markoteya“. This often recommended park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Ethno Village Etar, which may be one of the most eye-catching places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Gabrovo on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno", a locally renowned monastery in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Asen's Fortress.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Plovdiv. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Plovdiv. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Salt & Pepper, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Rahat Tepe is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at KFC. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Plovdiv tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Rock Bar Download, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of North Star, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Morado Bar & Dinner likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Head back to your accommodation in Plovdiv and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Bulgaria!

On day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Plovdiv. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bansko, where you will stay for 1 night.

Plovdiv is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include an art installation, a park, and an archeological site. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the well-known Singing Fountain. Just a short distance away is “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, an eye-catching park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, one of the city’s most beloved spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the interesting Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bansko. Bansko offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bansko. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Dine in style at Kasapinova Mehana, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Euphoria boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bansko.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Nova Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Penguins Bar & Dinner. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Amigo Pub, another top-rated place in the area.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Razlog, General Todorov, Rozhen, and Kyustendil, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Petrich. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Bansko includes a park, a museum, and a monastery. Park "razlog" is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Baba Vanga House Museum In Rupite, an up-and-coming museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Rozhen Monastery, a culturally significant monastery, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Bansko. If you’re looking for more, Park "st. Vrach" is also an often recommended attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Petrich, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Petrich's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant "Provence", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restorant „Rayski Kat ”? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restorantche , Zharavata" as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Petrich.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Bulgaria.